Here at Small Business Bonfire, we love talking about psychological insights and ways to improve how we show up in our personal and professional lives.
And our body language is one of the biggest game-changers when it comes to making a positive impression. In fact, some experts say that more than 50% of communication is non-verbal!
It might sound cliché, but the simple stuff really does have the most impact.
With this in mind, we dive into six practical, easy-to-implement body language tricks that can help you come across as a more confident person, even if on the inside you’re a bundle of nerves.
Let’s get started.
01 Keep your shoulders back
Have you ever noticed how people who appear confident almost always seem to have impeccable posture?
Shoulders back, chest open, chin slightly lifted. It’s a stance that says, “I own my space and I’m comfortable here.”
When I first started paying attention to my posture, I realized I was slouching far more than I thought. The moment I stood taller, I literally felt an energy boost—like my lungs had more room to breathe, and I was ready to take on any conversation that came my way.
This isn’t just in my head, either. Research suggests that posture can affect not only how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves.
If your body is sending signals of confidence (think open posture, relaxed shoulders), your brain might just pick up on it and help you feel the part.
02 Make eye contact
Winston Churchill once noted, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.”
And in my experience, few things show a positive attitude more quickly than direct eye contact. It signals respect, attentiveness, and openness.
Of course, you don’t want to stare someone down and make it weird, but meeting someone’s gaze can say, “I’m fully present, and I value your input.”
If you’re constantly glancing at your phone or looking over someone’s shoulder, you give the impression you’d rather be anywhere else or that you are uncomfortable.
Even a small tweak—like pausing whatever you’re doing to focus on the person speaking—can instantly amplify the aura of confidence around you.
Try this the next time you’re in a conversation: maintain comfortable eye contact, blink naturally, and nod occasionally to show understanding. You’ll notice people lean in and engage with you more.
03 Use open gestures
Have you ever caught yourself crossing your arms in front of your chest or clutching your phone like a lifeline?
These habits can subconsciously broadcast that you’re defensive or uninterested. Open gestures, on the other hand, communicate approachability and strength.
Here’s a little trick I have found. When I’m explaining something, I like to keep my palms facing upward or outward to show that I’m open to questions and feedback. It seems small, but it shifts the entire dynamic of a conversation.
You can try this in everyday interactions, like when you’re chatting with friends, presenting at a meeting, or even just ordering coffee.
04 Walk with purpose
Ever noticed how truly confident people walk as if they know exactly where they’re going—even if they aren’t sure? It’s that sense of purpose that sets them apart.
Of course, I’m not saying you should sprint around everywhere with laser-focused intensity.
Rather, move with clear direction. Keep your head up, shoulders back, and arms swinging naturally. When you walk like you have somewhere important to be, you send the message that you’re on a mission and have something valuable to contribute.
05 Offer a firm handshake
I learned this lesson the hard way in my early twenties when I gave my new boss a half-hearted, limp handshake. Let’s just say his reaction wasn’t exactly brimming with excitement.
From that moment on, I realized how something as simple as a handshake can set the tone for an entire relationship.
It might sound old-fashioned but trust me, if you’re shaking hands, go for a firm but not bone-crushing grip, make quick eye contact, and add a small smile. It’s a sign of respect and shows you’re confident in who you are.
06 Practice power posing
I used to think “power posing” was a bit silly…until I tried it.
The idea is to adopt a strong, expansive stance—like standing tall with your hands on your hips or stretching your arms out wide—for a short time before you enter a situation where you want to feel more confident.
Even if you don’t go full superhero pose, just taking a moment to stand up straight, lift your chin, and plant your feet firmly can give you a jolt of self-assurance.
Some studies suggest this body positioning can lower stress hormones and increase feelings of power (though results vary). Regardless of the science, it’s hard to deny the psychological boost you get from standing like you mean business.
I’ve found that doing a quick version of a power pose backstage (or even in the bathroom stall before a big presentation) helps settle my nerves. It might feel funny at first, but it’s a helpful reminder that your body and mind are connected, and you have the ability to “choose” confidence when you need it.
To sum up
Becoming a stronger, more confident version of yourself doesn’t require a complete personality overhaul.
Simple body language tweaks—like keeping your shoulders back, making solid eye contact, and using open gestures—can shift how others see you and how you feel about yourself.
It’s not about faking arrogance; it’s about carrying yourself with the respect you deserve. Body language is the silent ambassador of our inner world, and when we harness it correctly, we can transform our self-perception and our relationships.
Keep on the up and up.
